Week in Review: April 10, 2026

April 10, 2026

In this April 10 Week in Review we spotlight Isabel Carpio, Executive Assistant at CAL, SATF-CSP staff promotions, and CCI’s Special Olympics donation.

Staff Spotlight

3 Questions with Isabel Carpio, Executive Assistant, Warden’s Office, CAL

At Calipatria State Prison (CAL), Isabel Carpio serves as an Executive Assistant in the Warden’s Office, helping ensure communication flows across leadership and daily operations run smoothly throughout the institution.

What inspired you to pursue this career and what led you to CDCR?
“I wanted to build a dependable career, so I could truly be there for my family,” Carpio shared. After starting as an Office Assistant in 2022, she quickly advanced into her current role. “When I started, I realized that growth here isn’t limited; the opportunities to move forward are endless if you’re willing to learn and push yourself.”

What does a typical day look like for you?
“A typical day starts early and quiet, getting a sense of anything that might need immediate attention.” As the day unfolds, she coordinates meetings, prepares assignments, supports communication between executive leadership, department heads, and headquarters. “If an issue comes up, I help gather information so the warden can make informed decisions,” she said. She approaches each task with “a sense of responsibility and empathy.”

What brings you the most pride in your work?
“What I love most about my job is being someone my colleagues can rely on,” Carpio said. “That mutual trust turns everyday challenges into shared efforts instead of burdens. It reminds me why I’m here.”

In Our Institutions

SATF-CSP honors staff at promotion ceremony

SATF staff member poses with family in front of American flag at promotion ceremony

CDCR SATF honor guard member raises hand to hat with American flag in background

Staff at Substance Abuse Treatment Facility, and State Prison, Corcoran (SATF-CSP) gathered to recognize 36 employees during a recent promotion ceremony.

The event opened with the Honor Guard presenting the flags, followed by an acoustic national anthem performed by Office Technician Johnathan Gallegos.

Guest speakers included Chief Deputy Warden Matt Jones, Associate Warden (A) Ethan DeLaCruz, and Chief Nurse Executive Gloria Garcia. The ceremony honored staff across custody, health care, counseling, and administrative roles.

Family members, peers, and supervisors attended to celebrate the milestone. Many leaders were also present in support of the honorees.

“This promotion reflects the hard work we have all put in, and I’m honored to take this step with such an incredible group. It was a blessing to have my parents alongside, they both retired from the Department (SATF-CSP and PVSP), and it was a full circle moment for us all.”
– Analyst II Britney Garcia.

Associate Warden (A) Ethan DeLaCruz closed the ceremony by thanking families, stating,

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the families and loved ones who joined us in person, as well as those supporting from home who could not be here. This is a challenging environment to work in. What may not always be said to you all is how much we know you are the driving force behind the commitment and hard work your loved ones display on a daily basis. We are truly proud they get to be recognized in front of you all and that we get to recognize you for your support to them.”

The ceremony served as a moment to recognize not just promotions, but the people behind them. It brought together staff, leadership, and families to mark a shared milestone in each honoree’s career.

ASP skateboard art program supports youth

Group of incarcerated individuals present their skateboard artwork

Close up of 5 skatebaords with various artwork such as "raiders nation" and "harry potter" designs

Incarcerated individuals at Avenal State Prison (ASP) are giving back through a creative partnership with Fresno Skateboard Salvage.

Founded by Rodney Rodriguez, Fresno Skateboard Salvage partnered with ASP in 2019 to transform donated skateboards into original works of art. Each piece is later auctioned to fund new skateboards and accessories for underserved youth.

The program offers more than a creative outlet. It provides a structured opportunity for participants to focus on personal growth while contributing to a meaningful cause.

Through painting and design, participants are able to channel creativity into something that directly benefits others. At the same time, the program supports rehabilitation by encouraging accountability, skill development, and positive engagement.

The impact extends beyond the institution. Youth in the community gain access to resources, while the artwork showcases the talent and effort behind each piece.

CTF hosts GRIP graduation ceremony

Smiling man with graduation attire walks under walkway of people's arms

Correctional Training Facility (CTF), in partnership with Guiding Rage Into Power (GRIP), recognized 29 graduates during a recent ceremony.

“CTF is proud to partner with GRIP in delivering programming that promotes accountability and long-term change.”
– Acting Warden C. Rojas.

Programs like GRIP equip participants with tools to better understand themselves and support a safer environment within the institution.

LAC art drive supports foster youth

LAC incarcerated individuals pose with artwork

Incarcerated individuals at California State Prison, Los Angeles County (LAC) Facility A came together to create and donate artwork in support of foster youth.

The event featured paintings, drawings, and crochet items, all made with the intent to give back. The collected pieces were donated to CASA of Los Angeles, which advocates for children and families in the foster care system.

For participants, the effort reflects more than creativity. It represents a commitment to accountability and a desire to make amends through positive action.

Participants have organized fundraisers, art events, and service projects over time. These efforts reflect a shared understanding of the impact of past actions.

Although past actions cannot be changed, participants continue working to make positive contributions. Through initiatives like this, LAC supports growth, rehabilitation, and connection to the community.

Rehabilitation

CHCF hosts reentry resource fair in Stockton

Large group of people at CHCF reentry resource fair

California Health Care Facility (CHCF) hosted its fourth reentry resource fair, connecting individuals with programs that support rehabilitation and successful transition back into the community.

The event featured approximately 25 resource tables, bringing together internal and external partners. Organizations included El Concilio, Jack Tone Adult School, Alcoholics Anonymous, the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, and the Division of Adult Parole Operations, among others.

Participants had the opportunity to engage directly with providers offering education, mentorship, housing support, and reentry services. CHCF medical and nursing staff also shared information on available health services.

The fair drew more than 400 attendees, including incarcerated individuals, staff, and community partners. The strong turnout reflected the demand for accessible resources and support.

Events like this help bridge the gap between incarceration and reentry. They also reinforce CHCF’s ongoing commitment to preparing individuals for success beyond the institution.

CMC hosts OMCP cohort graduation ceremony

Group of 7 OMCP grads pose in front of large sign that says congrats grad

California Men’s Colony (CMC) recognized a new group of peer mentors during an Occupational Mentor Certification Program (OMCP) graduation ceremony.

The event honored participants who completed required training and internship hours. Their achievement reflects both commitment and continued engagement in programming.

Through OMCP, graduates prepare to serve as peer mentors in Cognitive Behavioral Interventions programs. In this role, they help facilitate groups and support others using their own experience.

Completion of the program may also lead to milestone and educational merit credits. Participants may also earn an Alcohol and Other Drug certification recognized by the Department of Health Care Services.

The ceremony brought staff and participants together to mark the occasion. It also underscored the important role these mentors will continue to serve in supporting rehabilitation efforts.

CCHCS

SATF-CSP marks Patient Safety Week with health fair

3 SATF public health staff members sit at table with resources

2 SATF staff sit at table, one stands behind them with ISUDT and Dental seen on sign behind them.,

During Patient Safety Week, staff at Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison, Corcoran (SATF-CSP) organized a health fair focused on education and prevention.

Healthcare teams across disciplines led the effort, including Nursing, Public Health Nursing, Infection Control, the Quality Management Support Unit, Dental, ISUDT, Health Information Management, and Mental Health.

Educational booths provided information on Valley Fever prevention, cancer screenings, and routine dental care. Staff also reviewed health care forms and explained how to access services. Interactive elements reinforced learning.

A Narcan demonstration offered hands-on training for overdose response. Trivia games and peer-led activities encouraged participation. Vaccination opportunities were also available to support disease prevention.

The event fostered a collaborative learning environment and strong participation. It provided valuable education and empowered individuals to make informed decisions about their health and safety.

Division of Adult Parole Operations

DAPO Central District hosts women’s empowerment event in Fresno

View of large room with people sitting at tables with gift baskets and woman speaking to people at the front of the room, DAPO sign on the wall.

The Community Reentry Unit (CRU), Central District, hosted a women’s empowerment event at the Fresno Parole Complex.

Coordinated by Parole Agent II Specialist Melissa Cutshall, the event brought together nearly 100 attendees. The space was transformed to create a welcoming and supportive environment.

Community partners, including Cultural Brokers, Marjaree Mason Center, Lighthouse Recovery, Fresno Adult School, and Fresno City College, provided resources. Services included parenting support, education, employment, housing, and reunification.

A highlight of the event was guest speaker Debra Rush of Breaking the Chains. Drawing from lived experience, she delivered a message of resilience and perseverance.

Attendees received donated hygiene, self-care items, along with raffle prizes. A shared meal created space for connection and conversation.

Parole Administrator Provencio and Fresno agents supported outreach and transportation efforts.
The event showed what is possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose. It reflected a continued commitment to uplifting and supporting women on their reentry journeys.

In the Community

CCI donates to Special Olympics Southern California

Two CCI staff members hold up large check for $2564.00 made out to Special Olympics SOCAL

Staff at California Correctional Institution (CCI) presented a $2,564 donation to Special Olympics Southern California.

Funds were raised through CCI’s annual Warden’s Golf Tournament. The donation supports programs that provide year-round sports opportunities for nearly 25,000 athletes.

CCI’s contribution supports the Kern County region, where athletes participate in activities across multiple seasons. The program is supported by a strong network of volunteers and community partners.

Special Olympics Southern California empowers athletes and promotes inclusion through sports. It also helps create meaningful experiences both on and off the field.

“CCI is thrilled to be a part of this awesome organization,” said Acting Warden Thomas Valdez. “Their passion and commitment to being their best is unmatched.”

The partnership reflects CCI’s continued support for community programs that inspire and uplift others.

SATF-CSP supports Valley Children’s Hospital through institution food sales

SATF staff stand with wagon full of stuffed animals at children's hospital, Oncology sign on wall behind them.

Four SATF staff stand with large check to Valley Children's Hospital for $6,244.42

Staff at Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison, Corcoran (SATF-CSP) partnered with the incarcerated population to support Valley Children’s Hospital through a recent donation.

SATF-CSP presented $6,244 and new stuffed animals collected in March. Funds were raised through institution food sales, while staff donated toys for pediatric patients.

Representatives met with hospital leadership and toured patient care areas, including the oncology unit, where advanced treatment plans contribute to strong outcomes.

Valley Children’s Child Life Services team supports patients and families through education, play, and emotional care, helping children cope with hospitalization.

Patients selected stuffed animals to keep during their stay, bringing comfort during a difficult time. The effort reflects ongoing collaboration between staff and the incarcerated population to support the community.

CDCR conducts small business outreach at SBA procurement fair

People gather for SBA event, two women stand behind table with resources as man on other side of table interacts.

CDCR staff connected with local vendors during a recent small business outreach event in Citrus Heights.

Acting Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (SB/DVBE) Advocates Julia Diener and Elizabeth Fisher represented the Office of Business Services.

The event, hosted by the Small Business Administration Sacramento District Office on March 12, brought together businesses interested in government contracting.

Throughout the fair, CDCR staff engaged directly with vendors. They shared information on procurement processes and upcoming contracting opportunities. Staff also provided guidance on SB/DVBE certification and how to compete for state contracts. These conversations helped demystify the process for new businesses.

Events like this create space for direct connection and education. They also help vendors better understand how to work with CDCR. By participating in outreach efforts, CDCR continues strengthening partnerships with small businesses. These efforts support broader participation in public sector contracting.

SOL given first pitch at Fairfield High Falcons game

CSP SOL staff member Veronica Mitchell throwing first pitch to son who is player on the Fairfield Falcons baseball team

CSP SOL staff member Veronica Mitchell stands with son and basbeall team member on Fairfield Falcons baseball field, and 3 additional unidentified participants, one holding up Falcons jersey

On a warm March afternoon in Fairfield, community connection took center field.

California State Prison, Solano (SOL) was honored at a Fairfield High School Falcons game after supporting the team through a staff-led fundraiser.

The Falcons invited Veronica Mitchell, an Analyst II with CDCR, to throw the ceremonial first pitch. The invitation recognized a donation that helped the team purchase new jerseys, their first in six years. For Mitchell, the moment became even more meaningful. She threw the first pitch to her son, Trustin Mitchell, a pitcher and catcher for the Falcons.

With teammates, coaches, and SOL staff looking on, Mitchell delivered a pitch met with cheers.
The event highlighted the impact of staff-driven efforts beyond the institution. Through simple acts of support, SOL continues strengthening community connections.

In the Media

Two incarcerated individuals interact with service dog and woman in wheelchair

San Quentin inmates reunite with dog they trained — and meet woman service animal helps

Two inmates who raised a puppy from behind the walls of San Quentin reunite with the dog – and meet the woman who lives more independently with her service animal.